GENTRY, AR — Gentry Public Schools is placing renewed emphasis on a balanced approach to classroom instruction this year, combining traditional teaching methods with purposeful use of technology to support student learning.
The district’s Balanced Instructional Model prioritizes direct teacher instruction, hands-on activities, classroom discussion, student collaboration and physical learning materials while maintaining technology as an important instructional resource.
The approach reflects the district’s belief that technology should enhance instruction rather than replace the direct interaction between teachers, students and learning materials that remains central to the classroom experience.
“Our goal is to make sure the way we teach is driven by what students need to learn, not simply by the technology available to us,” said Dr. Devon Conrad, Gentry assistant superintendent. “There is tremendous value in direct teacher instruction, hands-on learning, meaningful classroom conversations and students working together. Technology still has an important role, but it should support good teaching, not take the place of those experiences.”
Examples of the model are already taking shape across Gentry’s Primary School classrooms.
In Pre-K, students are using shaving cream to practice forming letters of the alphabet. The sensory-based activity helps young learners develop letter recognition, fine motor coordination and early writing skills through hands-on exploration, Conrad said.
First-grade students are using magnetic letters to build words featuring the “wh” and “sh” digraphs while learning how the addition of the suffix “s” changes words. Manipulating the letters allows students to work directly with sounds, spelling patterns and word formation.
In second grade, students are practicing partner reading and using hand motions to divide words into syllables. The activity encourages students to read aloud, listen to one another and actively participate in developing their literacy skills.
These classroom activities illustrate the district’s emphasis on instructional strategies that engage students in the learning process rather than relying primarily on digital tools, Conrad said.
Technology will continue to have a place in Gentry classrooms, providing access to digital learning resources, opportunities to develop technology skills and additional ways to support student growth. The district’s goal, however, is to ensure that technology is used intentionally and in ways that strengthen instruction.
Under the Balanced Instructional Model, teachers can draw from a range of methods, including teacher-led lessons, textbooks, paper-and-pencil activities, hands-on learning, student collaboration and digital resources. Instructional decisions are guided by curriculum and student learning needs, with the tools selected to support those goals.
Conrad said by emphasizing both proven teaching practices and the benefits of modern technology, Gentry Public Schools aims to provide engaging, meaningful instruction that helps students build foundational skills, participate actively in their education and prepare for future success.
The district’s approach supports its mission of ensuring all students connect, learn and succeed.
For more information about Gentry Public Schools, visit gentrypioneers.com.